ZESA Zimbabwe — Buy Tokens, New Connection & Meter Types

How to Buy ZESA Tokens

ZESA prepaid electricity tokens can be purchased through multiple channels:

Via EcoCash

Dial *151# on your Econet line
Select Pay Bill
Select ZETDC/ZESA
Enter your meter number
Enter the amount
Confirm with your EcoCash PIN
You'll receive your token via SMS

Other Methods

ZETDC Online Portal: Visit www.zetdc.co.zw
ZETDC Mobile App: Download from app stores
Authorised agents: ZESA offices, selected shops and vendors
Bank ATMs: Some banks offer ZESA token purchases through their ATMs
OneMoney, Telecash: Other mobile money platforms

Keep your meter number handy. You'll need it every time you buy tokens. Write it down and save it on your phone.

ZiG payments: ZESA tokens can be purchased in USD or ZiG (Zimbabwe Gold) at the prevailing rate.

Residential Electricity Tariffs

ZESA (ZETDC) uses a stepped tariff structure for residential customers. Tariffs are set in ZiG by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA):

Band 1 (0–50 kWh): Lowest rate per kWh — a lifeline tariff for low-usage households
Band 2 (51–100 kWh): Slightly higher rate
Band 3 (101–200 kWh): Medium rate
Band 4 (201–300 kWh): Higher rate
Band 5 (301+ kWh): Highest rate per kWh

6% Rural Electrification Levy: A 6% levy is added on top of all electricity charges to fund rural electrification projects across Zimbabwe.

The more electricity you use, the higher the per-unit cost. Tariffs are reviewed periodically by ZERA. Check the ZETDC website for the latest tariff schedule.

Apply for a New Connection

Visit Your Nearest ZETDC Office

Go to the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) office in your area.

Submit Your Application

Bring: your national ID, proof of property ownership (title deed or offer letter) or lease agreement, and a completed application form.

Site Inspection

ZETDC will inspect the property to assess the wiring and determine the connection requirements.

Pay the Connection Fee

Pay the applicable connection fee. The fee varies based on the distance from the nearest transformer and the supply type (single phase or three phase). Fees can be paid in USD or ZiG.

Installation and Meter

ZETDC installs the connection and meter. Most new connections are given prepaid meters.

Meter Types

Prepaid Meter
Buy tokens in advance and load them onto the meter. When the units run out, the electricity goes off. Most new connections use prepaid meters. No monthly bills.

Postpaid Meter
Electricity is used first and you receive a monthly bill based on your consumption. Older properties may still have postpaid meters. Bills must be paid on time to avoid disconnection.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I buy ZESA tokens?

You can buy ZESA tokens via EcoCash (dial *151# or use the EcoCash app), the ZETDC online portal, the ZETDC mobile app, or at authorised ZESA agents and bank ATMs. Tokens can be purchased in USD or ZiG at the prevailing rate.

How do I apply for a new ZESA connection?

Visit your nearest ZETDC office with your national ID, proof of property ownership or lease agreement, and a completed application form. An inspection will be done, and you'll pay the connection fee.

What is the difference between prepaid and postpaid ZESA?

Prepaid: you buy tokens in advance and load them onto your meter. Postpaid: you receive a monthly bill based on usage. Most new connections are prepaid.

What are ZESA residential electricity tariffs?

ZESA uses a stepped tariff structure for residential customers billed in ZiG. Lower usage bands are cheaper per kWh and higher usage attracts higher rates. A 6% Rural Electrification Levy is added on top. Tariffs are subject to periodic review by ZERA.

What do I do if my ZESA token doesn't work?

Double-check the token number. If it still doesn't work, contact ZETDC customer service with your meter number and proof of purchase. Do not attempt to tamper with the meter.

ZESA Zimbabwe Guide